After what easily could have been classified as rock-bottom with LeBron James’ injury, and a rough stretch highlighted by losses to the lowly Knicks and Cavaliers, the Lakers triumphantly resurrected optimism Thursday night with an impressive 138-128 win over the Thunder.
The overtime victory, which was arguably the Lakers' best of the season, felt just a little bit sweeter because of the stellar performances turned in from their young players. Of the 138 points the Lakers scored (which came at the expense of the second-best defensive team in the league) 108 were provided by players the team has drafted over the past few seasons.